Nina Maritz Architects sustainable architecture and design
KONGOLA INFO HUB & MASHI CRAFTS CENTRE
LOCATION:
Kongola - 110 km outside Katima Mulilo
PROJECT STATUS:
Completed 2011
CLIENT:
ICEMA and Mudumu North Complex
Nestled between large existing trees, the centre is the first component of a vision for a much larger hub, but able to function on its own. The light-filled interior of this adobe-walled building belies the usual gloomy dark interiors of thatched roof structures. Thatch is locally grown and community forestry provided timber for the loadbearing structure.
Infill wall panelling of translucent sheeting and locally woven reed mats alternate to illuminate the display of high-level local craft, which provides much-needed income for the Mashi community cooperative as well as a meeting point for community gatherings and interaction.